Sept. 6, 2009

Box Score 

NOTRE DAME, Ind. - Despite an all-around valiant effort by the Marquette women's soccer team, No. 1/1/1 North Carolina scored a second-half goal and snuck away with 1-0 win Sunday afternoon at the Inn at St. Mary's Classic hosted by Notre Dame. The loss snaps MU's three-game win streak as the Golden Eagles stand 3-2-0 overall.

North Carolina won the tournament and Marquette finished second. UNC finished 2-0, while Marquette and host Notre Dame each went 1-1. Senior Michelle Compty and sophomores Natalie Kulla and Rachael Sloan were named to the all-tournament team. Kulla was also named the tournament’s most valuable goalkeeper.

"We battle Carolina toe to toe today and put forth a great effort," said head coach Markus Roeders. "The key was an aggressive mindset and staying organized.  It took an outstanding shot to beat us and Carolina has many special players who are capable of doing so.  We learned and got better today, and I am proud of our squad how we battled.  Losing is no fun and the pain we feel will be a motivator going into future matches. Defensively, we played as a unit and everybody did their part from the goalkeeper all the way to the forwards.  We created some opportunities and I am proud how the ladies executed the game plan."

Despite outshooting MU, 21-6, the Tar Heels only put five shots on goal. Natalie Kulla, with a sound defense in front of her, was credited with four saves.

The Golden Eagles and Tar Heels battled hard to a scoreless first half. The Golden Eagles had a quality attempt to get on the board in the 22^nd minute, but UNC keeper Ashlyn Harris saved senior Becky Ryan's shot.

Alyssa Rich gave UNC its lone goal of the game at the 66:15 mark. Rich launched her shot from 18-yards out to the upper right corner out of reach for Kulla.

Marquette continued with its attacking mindset and played with a sense of urgency for the remainder of the second half.

"Our midfield and forwards were relentless on both ends of the field.  Carolina is the No. 1 team in the nation for a reason, but we showed that we have an excellent squad.  I am excited for what the future holds for us. It was total team effort for us and I am proud of every player on our squad for their contribution today," said Roeders.

The Golden Eagles will be back in action Thursday, Sept. 10 as they host Green Bay at 7 p.m., and open a three-game homestand at Valley Fields.